Traveling Between Hawaii's Islands: A Comprehensive Guide

Hawaii is an archipelago of 137 islands, but only six host the bulk of overnight visitors. The four major islands are Oahu, Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii, and Kauai. The remaining two, Lanai and Molokai, can be reached via departure points within Hawaii.

The best way to travel between the islands is by air, with Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines offering inter-island flights. The journey between islands is short, with flights lasting between 30 and 45 minutes. However, the entire process of travelling between islands can take up to 4 to 5 hours, including transportation to and from the airport, checking in and out of accommodations, and returning rental cars.

There is also the option of taking a ferry between Maui and Lanai, which takes about 45 minutes. Additionally, cruise lines such as Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line offer itineraries that visit multiple islands.

When planning a trip to Hawaii, it is recommended to spend at least 4 to 5 days on each island to fully experience what they have to offer.

Flying between islands

Flying is the most popular and cost-effective way to travel between the islands of Hawaii. There are several airlines that offer inter-island flights, including Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, Makani Kai Air, and Lanai Air. These flights are typically 30 to 45 minutes in length and can be found for as little as $39 each way. However, the entire process of travelling between islands can take 4 to 5 hours, including driving to and from the airport, returning rental cars, checking in, and going through security.

When booking inter-island flights, it is important to consider the different amenities and services offered by each airline. For example, Southwest offers free checked bags, while Hawaiian Airlines provides an island-themed experience with colourful decor and passion orange nectar juice. Additionally, Hawaiian Airlines offers better options for seat assignments and has premium options like first-class and extended legroom in economy. On the other hand, Southwest offers USB charging at your seat and simpler cancellation and rebooking processes.

It is also worth noting that inter-island flights in Hawaii are not limited to commercial aircraft. Charter companies like Makani Kai Air and Blue Hawaiian offer flights to less touristy areas and far-flung trailheads. For example, Makani Kai Air flies to Princeville on Kauai, Molokai, and the Kalaupapa Peninsula, while Blue Hawaiian offers helicopter tours to remote areas like the so-called Forbidden Island of Niihau.

Taking a ferry

If you're looking to take a ferry to Molokai, you're out of luck. A ferry used to operate between Maui and Molokai, but the service was discontinued in 2016.

Please note that the ferry ride can be rough, and you will need your sea legs!

Cruising between islands

Cruising is a great way to see multiple Hawaiian islands in a short space of time without the need to fly. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is the only cruise operator that encompasses the Hawaiian Islands from start to finish, with its Pride of America cruise departing from and returning to Oʻahu every Saturday. Over eight days, the cruise visits four islands: Maui, Hawaiʻi, and Kauaʻi, with two days spent at each island, except for Kauaʻi, where the ship remains for one and a half days.

On day one, the ship departs from Honolulu, Oʻahu, where guests are greeted with flower lei garlands and live Hawaiian music. On day two, the ship arrives at Kahului, Maui, where guests can hire a convertible to explore the island. Day three is spent enjoying Maui's popular tours, such as snorkelling and sunrise trips, or trying something more adventurous like waterfall rappelling.

On day four, the ship arrives at Hilo on Hawaiʻi Island. Here, guests can take the Hoppa-On Hoppa-Off Hilo Tour Bus to see the town's attractions, including Queen Liliʻuokalani Gardens, Rainbow Falls, and the Pacific Tsunami Museum. Another popular tour is to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where visitors can witness the ever-changing volcanic landscape.

The cruise ship anchors off the coast of Kona Island on day five. Passengers are taken to shore via tender boats to explore the town's restaurants, bars, boutiques, and historic buildings. There are also plenty of water activities on offer, including snorkelling, scuba diving, and stand-up paddleboarding. A recommended activity is to hire a buggy to travel to Puʻuhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, stopping en route for some 100% Kona coffee.

On day six, the ship arrives at Līhuʻe, Kauaʻi, where guests can take a helicopter tour to see the island's striking natural landscapes, including Jurassic Park Falls, Waimea Canyon, and Nāpali Coast. The ship departs at 2:30 pm on day seven, so it's important to make the most of the morning. A recommended activity is to pick up a rental car and drive to Poʻipū Beach recreation area via the Tunnel of Trees.

The final day is spent returning to Honolulu, Oʻahu, where guests disembark the ship.

Island hopping tips

Island hopping in Hawaii is worth it, but it can be time-consuming, so make sure your trip is long enough to accommodate these extra travel days. Here are some tips to help you plan your island-hopping adventure in Hawaii:

• Flights vs Ferries: Flying is the most popular and least expensive way to get between the Hawaiian islands. There are several commercial airlines offering inter-island flights, including Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines. However, if you are travelling between Maui and Lanai, you also have the option of taking a 45-minute ferry ride.
• Book in Advance: Depending on when you want to travel and how far in advance you book your tickets, travel between the islands can be very reasonable. Flights can be as cheap as $39 each way, but expect to pay between $50 to $100 for a one-way ticket.
• Allow Enough Time: Even though the flights between the islands are short (30 to 45 minutes), the entire process of travelling between islands can easily take 4 to 5 hours, including driving to and from the airport, returning rental cars, checking in, security, and collecting luggage.
• Direct Flights: Many inter-island flight options require a stop in Honolulu before heading to your final destination, so try to book direct flights if possible to save time.
• Consider a Cruise: If you want to see multiple islands in a short time without the hassle of flying, consider taking a cruise. Cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line offer itineraries that depart from and return to Oahu, making stops at neighbouring islands.
• Spend Enough Time on Each Island: While it's tempting to try and fit in as many islands as possible, it's important to give yourself enough time to fully experience each one. It is recommended to spend at least 5 days on each island you visit.
• Plan Your Activities: Each island offers something unique, so do your research and plan your activities accordingly. For example, if you're interested in SCUBA diving, the Big Island's west side has better coral and clearer water than Oahu.
• Be Mindful of SCUBA Diving Restrictions: If SCUBA diving is on your agenda, remember to leave enough time between your dive and your flight. Wait at least 12 hours before flying or driving to high altitudes to avoid issues with nitrogen levels in your blood.
• Use a Travel Agent: Planning an island-hopping trip can be overwhelming, so consider using a travel agent to help you put together your itinerary and make bookings.

Airlines and costs

There are several airlines that offer inter-island flights in Hawaii, including:

• Hawaiian Airlines: This is the largest operator of flights to and from Hawaii, and it offers direct flights between Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island. It flies into the major airports on each island and has inter-island routes covered.
• Southwest Airlines: This airline is known for its low-cost fares and direct flights between the four major islands. It is a good option for those looking for the cheapest flights.
• Mokulele Airlines: This airline operates small, turbo-prop planes that fly from the main airports as well as smaller airports on the islands. It is the only airline to fly to both Molokai and Lanai.
• Makani Kai Air: This is a charter company with a small fleet of planes that will fly travellers between the islands.
• Lanai Air: This is a turbo-prop option for those heading from Honolulu to the small island of Lanai.

The cost of inter-island flights in Hawaii has been a topic of discussion for years, with residents and visitors paying nearly as much for 100-mile flights as for distances of 2,500+ miles. The high cost is often attributed to a lack of competition, as Hawaiian Airlines was the primary inter-island carrier until Southwest Airlines entered the market.

Inter-island flight prices can range from as low as $39 each way to up to $239 round trip, depending on the route and time of booking. Booking at least six months in advance is recommended to take advantage of the best fares.

Frequently asked questions